Childcare Workers vs. Recreation Workers: Who Earns More?
Recreation Workers out-earn Childcare Workers by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Childcare Workers land at $34,980 and Recreation Workers at $36,560. The education gap is real: childcare worker programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while recreation worker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Childcare Workers is District of Columbia ($47,340); for Recreation Workers it's District of Columbia ($46,460).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Childcare Workers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Childcare Workers or Recreation Workers?
Recreation Workers earn more nationally. The median is $34,980 for Childcare Workers versus $36,560 for Recreation Workers, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Childcare Workers or Recreation Workers?
Recreation Workers has the better 10-year outlook at 4.1% projected growth, compared to -2.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Childcare Workers or Recreation Workers?
Childcare Workers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Recreation Workers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Childcare Workers get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Childcare Workers at $47,340/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Childcare Workers vs. Recreation Workers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Childcare Workers earn $47,340 vs. $46,460 for Recreation Workers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.